Dismantle Gossip and Break the Cycle – Part 2
- Vernita "Neat" Simmons
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
The Role of the Younger Widows
As we continue to reflect on the consequences of gossiping, let us embrace the teachings of Timothy, who cautioned us regarding the younger widows' idleness or meddling in the affairs of others. Neither should they talk about those things that they should not mention. He encourages them to marry and have children. This command is enough to keep them occupied and to fill their lives with substance. (1 Timothy 5:11-14, NASB).
The Essence of Shut Mouth Grace
Proverbs 21:23 teaches us how to restrain our tongues because when we control our tongues, we stay out of trouble. Even Psalms 141:3 explains how pertinent it is for God to set a guard over our mouths and to keep watch at the door of our lips. Words that encourage build us up, rather than words that hurt and alienate us. (Ephesians 4:29, AMP).
Proverbs 18:8, NASB - The words of a gossiper are like dainty morsels, And they go down into the innermost parts of the body.
Like healthy nutrients for our body, gossip destroys everything it touches. To the gossiper, it tastes delicious, but the consequences are dire and have lasting effects. Those who participate in such an act of cruelty can ruin a person. Like a hurricane, it rips friends apart, creates division in relationships, and causes strife in the workplace. It even wounds people in the Body of Christ and shall never leave behind a residue of God’s love.
Exodus 23:1, AMP: You shall not spread a false report. You shall not join hands with a wicked man to be a malicious witness.
The words we speak reflect the condition of our hearts. God feels so strongly about our words that He warns us about lying in a report. A false statement can do detrimental damage to someone’s reputation. We must also consider our comments on social media before we push send. Once that lie is out there, it gets embedded in the minds of others. A lie is easy to start but hard to stop. Like a match to dry grass, it spreads out of control. Spreading malicious lies that destroy others will never bring glory to God.
Not only does this hurt the intended victim, but it also affects their family. It can even cause embarrassment to a nation. Our word speaks volumes, and they have sound effects that travel across the globe. You can cause somebody to get judged for doing something they did not do. Opportunities and doors can close because of dirty rumors. The consequences of such an unwarranted action can be devastating with long-term effects.
Therefore, Leviticus 19:16 tells us, You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the LORD. In a nation where so many tongues are sharper than a two-edged sword, our goal should be to break every cycle of judging and condemning others. Avoid sitting at the table where anyone badmouths others. Instead of giving your silent approval, hold them accountable and come from among them.
Can we dismantle the awful effects of gossip? We will discuss this in part 3 next week.
RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: Practical Actions that Put Love on A Pedestal
TIME FOR REFLECTION: Are you surprised by the spiritual decline in the lives of those who gossip, slander others, and spread rumors? How can we help them change their ways without justifying their actions?
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